How to Get Back in Your Car If You Have No Spare Key
You walk away from your vehicle only to realize that you've locked the keys inside. It's a sinking sensation that can leave you feeling panicked and helpless.
If you're lucky you'll find that a friend or family member may have a spare key to give access to your vehicle. If you don't have an extra key, you may need to call an auto locksmith or a towing service.
1. Call a family member or a friend
We can close the car door accidentally when we are in a rush to get somewhere. Sometimes, it happens when we are distracted, like when we're talking to someone on the phone or listening to a radio program and our brain doesn't completely focus. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car isn't fun. It's even worse when you don't have an extra key. It can be a stressful situation, but there are ways to gain access.
Contact your family member or friend. This will inform them that you're in trouble and they could even bring a spare car key. If they aren't do this, they should be able to assist by using other tools to unlock your car. This could include items such as a doorstop, coat hanger made of wire or even shoelaces.
Call 911 immediately if the situation is hazardous, such as if an elderly person, child, or anyone's security is in danger. They can dispatch an emergency crew to your location, who can either use a slim jim to unlock the door or break the window.
If the situation isn't risky, it's recommended to seek help from family members or friends before you attempt to unlock your vehicle on your own. This is due to the fact that DIY methods could cause damage to the door and trigger security systems, or void the warranty. It's also important to note that certain methods may not work on newer cars due to their special locking mechanisms.
To prevent this from happening in the future take into consideration purchasing a spare key to your vehicle. They can be affordable for the basic metal key, or more expensive for a sophisticated key fob. They can save you lots of stress in the long term! It's recommended to store them in a safe place that is accessible for example, in your wallet or purse.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
It's a given that you are likely to lock your keys in your car at some point. It can be frustrating and embarrassing to find out that your keys are not there after closing the door.
To avoid this, keep a spare at your home, at work or in your gym bag. Many people also purchase a key chain that they can attach to their purse or wallet in case they forget their keys. This way, you'll have a spare key on your desk in a snap and don't have to worry about the embarrassment that could result from needing assistance at the roadside or stealing your own vehicle.
If you don't have an extra key the best thing to do is call a locksmith for help. A professional locksmith will be able to open your car without causing damage to the lock and they can even make you new keys right on the spot. They will also be able to offer advice about how to prevent being locked out of your car in the future.
If you're a member of AAA you can have locksmiths delivered to you swiftly and at an affordable price. In addition, most comprehensive auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance. These services will be able to get you into your vehicle quickly, however they could cost more than a professional locksmith.
There are many DIY options to open your car without a key. These include using a shoelace or a wire hook. However, these methods are risky and time-consuming and are more likely to break the lock or damage your window. You should remain at peace and use these techniques as a last resort. If you have children or pets in your vehicle, or are stuck on the side of a highway, it's important to call 911 immediately. You can seek assistance from the police, or they can organize a towing service.
3. Contact a towing service
The next step is calling an towing service. A majority of these services will unlock your car's doors without harming it. If you are a roadside assistance customer make sure that the number is programmed in your phone or you know it to be able to reach them easily. They might even offer to help you out for no cost. Alternatively, you can also contact the non-emergency police line and explain your issue. You can also get advice on how to enter your vehicle and they'll provide assistance if required.
It's never fun to be locked out of your vehicle especially when you're in a dangerous environment. Busy roads or unfamiliar places at night can be hazardous, so you should always examine your surroundings prior to asking for assistance. Make sure you check all doors and windows if unsure how to unlock your vehicle. It is possible that you left a small window slightly open. This can sometimes allow you to gain access.
You can also attempt to break into your car using tools such as a slim Jim. However, this is not recommended and can damage the locks on your vehicle. It is also important to note that the majority of insurance policies will not cover the costs of these repairs, so you should always be aware before making use of any device to gain access to your vehicle.
Keep a spare car key in your purse or wallet. You can keep it in a purse or wallet, or you can buy an auto key holder with a magnetic box and place it on the underside of your vehicle. spare car keys leave their spare car key with someone in the family or a trusted friend so they can find it in the event of need.
You can also contact your local dealer to see whether they can help out. their website of dealers will give you an interim key so that you can get back into your car. Be prepared to be asked for evidence of ownership as well as other personal information.
4. Call AAA
Keep an extra in a secure place. This will reduce the chance that you'll get locked out. Place a spare key in your wallet, purse or one of those magnetic boxes that can be tucked away in the underside of your car. You could also leave one to a close family member or friend who might be able to assist you in a hurry. You could also write your vehicle identification number (VIN) on a piece paper and keeping it in your glove compartment to quickly contact the owner of the vehicle should you are locked out.
You can contact roadside assistance if you don't own a spare. Moody states that certain firms are experts at unlocking vehicles and will send technicians to your location within a few hours. Others, such as AAA will send a locksmith straight away. The cost of roadside services will vary depending on your membership level and the coverage plan.
There are several other methods to open your car without requesting roadside assistance, such as using an inflatable wedge or bobby pin. These techniques can damage the door and should be used only as a last resort.
Always call emergency services when there is immediate threat if you can't unlock your vehicle. This includes if you have pets or children in the vehicle, you're stuck in a traffic jam or your vehicle is in a dangerous place. It is recommended to avoid contacting the police and try other methods of getting back into your car. You could be covered under your auto club membership or roadside assistance policy. Review the policy's terms to ensure. If not, you'll need to pay for the locksmith or roadside service.